I’ve got a lot of favorite places in San Francisco and the Bay Area and I’m sure you do, too.  Long before I worked here, the Asian Art Museum was at the top of my list.  Turns out we’re at the top of Stanlee Gatti’s list, too.  If you’re not familiar with him, according to Google, Stanlee Gatti is “San Francisco’s ‘resident creative genius;’ known for making event design a visual art.”

I know we’re one of Stanlee Gatti’s favorite places because he told us.  Well, actually he told Google and then they told us.  Google asked a number of well-known locals (apparently those with excellent taste) to make a list of their favorite places.  So the next time you’re wondering what to do with yourself you can say “What would Alice Waters do today?” or “What would Nate Query do tonight?” and check out their lists for ideas.

Google sees this as a way to promote local businesses and improve their maps function (you can create your own list of favorite places and publish it if you want).  And Google sure knows how to put on a media event to get the word out.  In addition to the usual presentation, there was a little main street set up in the back of the North Light Court at City Hall.  My colleagues and I were surprised to find a fully-functioning candy store, a flower cart, a deli and a hardware store.

Let’s assume that Asian is one of your favorite places in San Francisco.  Where is your favorite place in the museum?  For me it’s a tough choice between walking down the hallway in the 3rd floor Chinese galleries towards the Guanyin and the Peterson Room Garden where I’m fortunate to spend time with Jade Circle members and special guests.

The Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara (Chinese: Guanyin), approx. 1100-1200; Wood; China; The Avery Brundage Collection B60S24+

The Richard H. and Marianne Peterson Garden

This is a post from: the blog of the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco. Visit us at www.asianart.org.

Favorite Places